PA
Pennsylvania House Bill HB1949

Pennsylvania 2023-2024 Regular Session

Pennsylvania House Bill HB1949

Introduced
1/9/24  

Caption

In city revitalization and improvement zones, providing for establishment of contracting authority board for city of the third class.

Impact

The implementation of HB1949 is expected to have significant implications for state laws governing city operations and local governance. By formally establishing a contracting authority board, the bill encourages cities of the third class to adopt more structured approaches to manage contracts related to urban improvement initiatives. This could lead to more robust economic development strategies tailored to the unique needs of these cities. Additionally, it could streamline the decision-making process around contracting, allowing for quicker and potentially more efficient project execution within these municipalities.

Summary

House Bill 1949 is designed to amend the existing Tax Reform Code of 1971 in Pennsylvania by providing for the establishment of a contracting authority board specifically for cities classified as third class. The bill seeks to enhance local governance by allowing these cities to create a dedicated board comprised of nine members appointed by local representatives. This board is tasked with overseeing contracts and projects aimed at the revitalization and improvement of urban areas within these municipalities. By empowering cities in this manner, the bill aims to foster more focused and tailored strategies for local development.

Sentiment

The sentiment around HB1949 appears to be generally supportive among local officials and stakeholders advocating for urban regeneration. Proponents argue that the establishment of a contracting authority board will grant third-class cities the necessary tools to effectively manage and execute revitalization projects. However, there may also be concerns regarding the proportion of influence that appointed members from various governmental levels will wield, which could lead to debates over the autonomy of local governance versus state oversight.

Contention

One notable point of contention surrounding HB1949 pertains to the balance of power within local governance structures. Critics may argue that while the bill aims to empower cities of the third class, the process of appointing board members by state officials could dilute local control. This could lead to skepticism about whether such entities will prioritize the interests of their communities or succumb to external pressures. Overall, the bill underscores an ongoing dialogue about local autonomy and the role of state involvement in municipal matters.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

PA SB1014

In city revitalization and improvement zones, further providing for definitions, for establishment or designation of contracting authority, for approval, for transfers, for restrictions, for transfer of property and for review.

PA SB367

In neighborhood improvement zones, providing for contracting authority membership and further providing for confidentiality.

PA SB778

In city revitalization and improvement zones, further providing for approval.

PA SB235

In city revitalization and improvement zones, further providing for approval.

PA SB448

In city revitalization and improvement zones, further providing for approval.

PA HB2406

In city revitalization and improvement zones, further providing for definitions, for establishment or designation of contracting authority, for approval, for functions of contracting authorities, for qualified businesses, for funds, for reports, for calculation of baseline, for certification, for transfers, for restrictions and for transfer of property, providing for floating zones, further providing for Commonwealth pledges and for confidentiality, providing for operational funding and technical support and further providing for guidelines and for review.

PA SB0272

Capital City Revitalization Zone

PA HB920

Providing for the establishment of Urban Agricultural Incentive Zones.

PA HB899

Providing for expanded neighborhood improvement zones.

PA HB1879

City of Jackson Revitalization Act; create.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.